This blog post is all about how to get from Thailand to Laos.
Travelling around Southeast Asia was one of the best things I’ve ever done. I absolutely loved exploring Thailand, Cambodia, Vietnam, and Laos.
Each country had its own charm, but Laos really stood out to me—and yet, it’s often so overlooked by other travellers.
If you have the time, I’d highly recommend adding Laos to your itinerary. It’s one of the most beautiful, relaxed, and underrated countries in the region.
If you’re considering crossing the border from Thailand to Laos, this guide will take you through all the best travel options. Whether you’re on a budget, looking for comfort, or craving a unique experience like the iconic slow boat.
This blog post is all about how to get from Thailand to Laos.
Why You Shouldn’t Skip Laos
Laos might not be on every traveller’s radar, but it absolutely should be. Think dramatic mountain landscapes, peaceful riverside towns, and a pace of life that’s refreshingly slow.
It’s the kind of place where you can truly unwind, get off the beaten track, and immerse yourself in a more traditional way of life.
Compared to the busyness of Bangkok or the tourist-packed cities of Vietnam, Laos offers a completely different vibe. It’s quiet, authentic, and feels like a step back in time—in the best possible way.
From watching monks collect alms at sunrise in Luang Prabang to floating down rivers in an inner tube in Vang Vieng, there’s a calm and simplicity here that’s hard to find elsewhere.
Highlights include Luang Prabang with its French-colonial charm and spiritual atmosphere, the backpacker haven of Vang Vieng that’s now more about adventure and stunning landscapes than the wild parties it was once known for, the laid-back capital of Vientiane, and the magical 4,000 Islands in the south where hammocks and sunsets rule the schedule.
Useful Links & Resources
✈️ SafetyWing Travel Insurance
Make sure you’re insured with travel insurance! SafetyWing offers great deals for digital nomads as well as travelers booking a backpacking trip.
🚌 12Go Asia
We booked all of our transport in Asia via 12Go. Use this to book sleeper buses, day buses, trains and more to your next destination in Laos.
📲 Airalo Travel eSIM
Access the internet with ease as soon as you land in Thailand with an Airalo eSIM. Use code ORLAGH3 for $3 off your first Airalo eSIM.
👩🏻💻 NordVPN
If you plan to use public WiFi a lot or want to stream your favourite TV shows from your home country, make sure you have a VPN connection.
Laos for Budget Travellers
Laos is also a dream for budget travellers.
Whether it’s accommodation, transport, food, or experiences, your money stretches far here—making it perfect if you’re trying to see as much of Southeast Asia as possible without blowing your budget.
It’s the kind of place where you can afford to slow down and stay a little longer.
If you’re after something a little less touristy, more peaceful, and full of charm, Laos should definitely be on your radar. You might not hear as much about it as the bigger names in the region, but that’s exactly what makes it so special.
There’s more than one way to get from Thailand to Laos, and your choice will depend on where you’re starting from, your budget, and your sense of adventure.
1. Thailand to Laos by Bus: The Budget-Friendly Option
Taking the bus is the cheapest way to travel from Thailand to Laos. It’s also the most flexible, with routes departing from cities across Thailand.
We actually considered this option ourselves because it was so cheap—it’s hard to argue with the price when you’re travelling on a tight budget.
And to be honest, it’s also one of those routes you’ll talk about for years after—“remember that 20-hour bus ride from Chiang Mai to Luang Prabang?”
That said, we just couldn’t face the length of the journey at the time. If you’re up for a bit of a mission, it’s definitely a wallet-friendly way to cross the border.
- Chiang Mai to Luang Prabang: This journey can take up to 20 hours and usually involves an overnight sleeper bus.
- Bangkok to Vientiane: Take a bus to Nong Khai, cross the Thai-Lao Friendship Bridge, and hop into a tuk-tuk or local bus into Vientiane.
- Ubon Ratchathani to Pakse: Ideal for those heading to southern Laos and the 4,000 Islands.
You can book your bus tickets easily using 12GoAsia, which is the best and most reliable platform for booking transport in Southeast Asia.
2. Thailand to Laos by Flying: The Fastest (and Most Expensive) Option
If you’re short on time or just not a fan of long land journeys, flying might be the best option for you.
Flights from Thailand to Laos are quick—some under an hour—and perfect if you want to maximise your time exploring instead of sitting on a bus.
Of course, the downside is the cost of travelling this way from Thailand to Laos. Flights can be pricey compared to buses or boats, especially if you’re booking last minute or travelling in high season.
But if you’ve got the budget and want to keep things smooth and simple, this is definitely the easiest way.
- Bangkok to Luang Prabang or Vientiane: Several direct flights daily.
- Chiang Mai to Luang Prabang: Just over an hour in the air and you’re there.
We didn’t go for this option when travelling from Thailand to Laos, but if you’re landing in Bangkok on a long-haul flight and want to hit the ground running, it makes total sense.
3. Thailand to Laos by Slow Boat: The Scenic Adventure
The slow boat from Laos to Thailand is what we did—and I couldn’t recommend it more.
We actually travelled this route in reverse, going from Luang Prabang to Thailand, but the experience is exactly the same in the other direction (Thailand to Laos).
The slow boat is one of those unforgettable travel moments. You spend two days drifting down the Mekong River, passing tiny villages, lush jungle, and waving at local kids playing in the water.
It’s slow, yes, but that’s the charm. It’s peaceful, social, and you really feel like you’re experiencing something special.
- Start in Chiang Rai or Chiang Khong: Travel to the border and cross into Huay Xai.
- Take the slow boat down the Mekong: Overnight stop in Pakbeng, a sleepy riverside town.
- Finish in Luang Prabang: One of the most magical places in Laos.
You can book this journey as a full package on 12GoAsia, which usually includes your bus to the border, help crossing, and both days of the boat journey. Trust me, it’s worth it.
RELATED blog post to read: How to Travel From Laos to Thailand by 2-Day Slow Boat
More Useful Links & Resources
🚁 Tours & Activities
Book your tours, cooking classes, boat trips and more via the below activity booking platforms:
- GetYourGuide: great for things like cooking classes, private tours and more
- Viator: use Viator to book tours and transport to other destinations across Southeast Asia
🏨 Hostelworld
Book your hostel accommodation in Laos and Thailand with Hostelworld, the most reliable hostel site.
🏍️ International Driving License
If you plan to drive a motorbike while in Southeast Asia, make sure you have an International Drivers License to avoid fines and getting into trouble with local authorities.
4. Thailand to Laos by High-Speed Rail: The Modern Option
Although the cross-border connection from Thailand to Laos isn’t fully operational yet, Laos now has a brand-new high-speed rail line running north to south—from Vientiane to Boten, near the Chinese border.
It’s sleek, fast, and a total game changer for getting around the country.
- From Bangkok to Nong Khai: Cross the border into Vientiane and pick up the high-speed rail.
- From Vientiane to Luang Prabang: Just a few hours on the train, with beautiful views along the way.
Just be warned—they have strict security, and you’re not allowed to bring any liquids or sprays on board.
This can be a bit of a nightmare, especially if you’ve just stocked up on mosquito repellent (which you’ll absolutely need in Laos). You’ll be forced to throw it all away before boarding, so plan ahead!
This Thailand to Laos train is a brilliant option once you’re inside Laos and want to get around quickly without resorting to long bus rides.
Suggested Routes Based on Where You Are in Thailand
- From Northern Thailand (Chiang Mai/Chiang Rai): Go for the slow boat experience or fly to Luang Prabang.
- From Bangkok: Bus or train to Nong Khai then into Vientiane; or fly directly to Luang Prabang or Vientiane.
- From Southern Thailand (Isaan or Ubon Ratchathani): Bus to Pakse and onwards to the 4,000 Islands.
RELATED blog post to read: Ultimate South Thailand Travel Route: Phi Phi, Phuket & More
What to See in Laos
Once you’ve crossed into Laos, here are some places you shouldn’t miss:
- Luang Prabang: UNESCO-listed city known for its night market, waterfalls, and temples.
- Vang Vieng: Popular for tubing, adventure sports, and mountain views.
- Vientiane: A relaxed capital city with a mix of French architecture and Buddhist monuments.
- Pakse: Gateway to the Bolaven Plateau, coffee plantations, and waterfalls.
- Don Det/4,000 Islands: Blissfully slow-paced island life with hammocks and river sunsets.
Thailand to Laos Booking Tips
- Use 12GoAsia for all your buses, trains, and slow boat packages from Thailand to Laos. It’s reliable, easy to use, and lets you compare prices.
- Book a few days in advance in high season (Nov–Feb).
- Always double-check visa requirements for Laos based on your nationality. Many nationalities can get a visa on arrival or eVisa.
Laos might not be the first country that comes to mind when planning a Southeast Asia trip, but it deserves a spot on every itinerary.
Whether you’re drifting down the Mekong on a slow boat, zipping through the country on the high-speed train, or arriving by night bus, the journey is all part of the adventure.
So if you’re mapping out your Thailand travels, don’t stop at the border. Head into Laos—you won’t regret it.
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